Vietnamese Driving Licenses: A1 vs. A2 – Which One Do You Need?

Anh Minh, a young and ambitious entrepreneur, decided to open a small grocery store in Hanoi’s bustling Cau Giay district. Everything was ready, from the storefront to the inventory, except for a small truck for deliveries. While browsing online for suitable vehicles, he found many compact and fuel-efficient vans from brands like Thaco, Hyundai, and Suzuki. However, he stumbled upon a crucial question: “What are the A1 and A2 driving licenses, and which one do I need to drive these trucks?”

If you share the same question as Anh Minh, let’s delve into the details of these two common Vietnamese driving license categories with XE TẢI HÀ NỘI!

What is an A1 Driving License?

An A1 driving license permits you to drive:

• Passenger vehicles with up to 9 seats, including the driver’s seat.
• Trucks with a design payload not exceeding 3,500 kg and a maximum passenger capacity of 9 people, including the driver.

For example, with an A1 license, you can drive popular van models such as:

• Thaco Towner 990kg: A light truck favored for its agile maneuverability within the city.
• Hyundai Porter H150: A modern van with a durable engine, suitable for urban transportation.
• Suzuki Carry Pro: A compact and fuel-efficient truck, ideal for navigating narrow streets and alleys.

What is an A2 Driving License?

An A2 driving license allows you to operate:

• Passenger vehicles with 10 to 30 seats, including the driver’s seat.
• Trucks with a design payload between 3,500 kg and under 7,500 kg.

As you can see, an A2 license allows you to drive vehicles with a higher payload and passenger capacity compared to an A1 license.

A1 vs. A2 Driving License Comparison

Should You Choose an A1 or A2 Driving License?

Choosing between an A1 or A2 driving license depends on your specific needs.

• If you need a compact truck for business, transporting goods within the city, an A1 license is a suitable choice.
• If you require a larger truck for heavier cargo, long-distance travel, or passenger transportation business, an A2 license is more appropriate.

Important Reminders When Driving a Truck

Whether you hold an A1 or A2 license, always remember these crucial reminders when driving a truck:

• Thoroughly inspect the vehicle before operating.
• Strictly adhere to traffic laws.
• Choose appropriate routes, avoiding restricted roads for trucks.
• Drive safely and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.

According to Mr. Nguyen Van An, a traffic safety expert at Hanoi Transportation College, “Choosing the right driving license and strictly complying with traffic regulations are crucial factors in ensuring safety for yourself and the community.” (Source: Traffic Safety Handbook, 2023)